Develop a performance appraisal document based on a standard nursing theory related to patient care. The nursing theory used for each nurse's performance appraisal should accurately reflect the kind of care the nurse is expected to provide.
Begin each section of the appraisal with a statement related to the applicable nursing theory, such as the Knowledge-Based Practice theory. Follow this statement with a brief description of an observable action related to the theory, such as "The nurse strives to gain knowledge and nursing skills to provide safe nursing care."
List the indicators that support the nursing theory you are using for the review. For the Knowledge-Based Practice theory, for example, include an indicator like, "The nurse uses appropriate information and resources to reach patient care goals." Leave space on the performance appraisal form for the nurse to write an example of activities that illustrate how he supports this indicator of the nursing theory, such as "Attend patient care meetings and use information shared to help reach patient goals."
Ask the nurse manager to complete the same form in regard to the working performance of the specific nurse being appraised.
Schedule a review and discussion between the nurse manager and the nurse using both versions of the appraisal form as part of the appraisal process.
Use both the nurse's and the manager's version of the nursing performance appraisal to write a final, official version.